As reported by Infodefensa on December 17, 2024, the Colombian Army has begun a program to develop a self-propelled mortar variant of its domestically designed 4×4 armored personnel carrier, the Titán-C Trop. The decision is based on the vehicle’s performance in Operation Perseo, during which it was subjected to small-arms fire and rifle grenades. A prototype of the mortar-equipped version is planned for 2025, with testing to evaluate its operational functionality. The program aims to increase the vehicle’s ability to provide combined fire support through both direct and indirect fire.
This new version of the Titán-C Trop APC will include a remote weapon station at the front for a Browning M2A2 QCB 12.7x99mm machine gun. It will also feature a modular system in the rear compartment for mounting 81mm mortars, such as the Thales TDA MO 81-61 C/L, Elbit Systems B-499, or ECIA L/65 81. These mortars, already in the Army’s inventory, are expected to provide effective indirect fire support with ranges exceeding 3,500 meters.
The Titán-C Trop is part of a broader armored vehicle development initiative that began in 2012 with the Titan A. The Titan project was launched to replace commercially available troop carriers, such as the Chevrolet NPR. Developed by Blindex SA under a contract from the Colombian Ministry of Defense, the Titan A underwent limited deployment before the project transitioned to a second phase, resulting in the Titan B. Between 2020 and 2021, four Titan B vehicles were produced with dual-layer BR6 ballistic armor, a V-shaped hull, and enhanced mobility systems. These vehicles demonstrated resilience during operations, particularly in Arauca, where they experienced over 70 documented attacks, including small-arms fire and grenades. The Titan series currently performs missions that include troop transport, logistics, patrols, and area control in various operational zones across Colombia.